The Police Chief keeps you on the cutting edge of law enforcement technology with monthly product announcements. Items about new or improved products are based on news releases supplied by manufacturers and distributors; IACP endorsement is in no way implied.

Rapid DNA analysis

GE Healthcare Life Sciences and NetBio announce an extensive developmental validation of DNAscan Rapid DNA Analysis System has commenced to evaluate the overall system from swab-in to profile-out. Following analysis, the results will be used to seek National DNA Index System (NDIS) approval, which will allow forensic laboratories to submit the STR profiles generated by the DNAscan system to the U.S. national DNA database (CODIS). DNAscan Rapid DNA Analysis System is a fast, rugged, and easy-to-use analysis system developed to enable law enforcement agencies to process DNA samples in fewer than 90 minutes, thereby helping to accelerate the criminal investigation process.

There are many forms of forensic evidence in cases and investigations. The latest is a voice print, and Nuance Communications, the leader in voice biometrics and natural language understanding, is unveiling its all-new Nuance Forensics solution. Nuance Forensics enables law enforcement and forensics professionals to input audio files (for example. an audio recording of a phone conversation), and determine if the identity of the individual speaking on the phone matches the voice of a known suspect. It is fully admissible in court and can also be used to assist law enforcement during investigations, not only to confirm the identity of individuals, but also to confirm gender, dialect, and language spoken.

Kustom Signals announces the Extreme option for their popular G3 Vision in-car video system that allows it to operate in the harshest of climates and conditions. Now available with a high-security, temperature controlled vault for the DVR and recording media, the G3 Vision with the Extreme Vault option is capable of operating in temperatures between -67°F to +185°F (-55°C to +85°C). The lockable, stainless steel vault offers protection from crashes, fire, and tampering. The vault complies with MIL-STD 810G for humidity, drop, vibration, dust resistance, and water resistance and exceeds the standard for temperature.

A new social network is using the latest mobile technology to provide an increased level of protection during school shootings as they unfold. The Hero911 Network is a voluntary, nonprofit group of federal, state, and local law enforcement officers nationally dedicated to reducing response times to active school shooting incidents. The launch of the group’s Hero911 app is designed to increase the number of officers, on or off duty, who can respond to these tragic school crimes. Any of the nearly 900,000 active U.S. federal, state, or local law enforcement officers can download the Hero911 app for free on their iOS and Android smartphones. The Hero911 app will work in concert with the Hero911 Network’s new companion app for teachers and school staff called SchoolGuard.

Gamber-Johnson announces its Vehicle Specific Console Box for the re-designed 2014 Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle (PPV). The new Chevrolet Caprice PPV has moved the shifter from the center console to the steering wheel column. With this re-design the Gamber-Johnson Vehicle Specific Console Box is now able to extend all the way to the dash, creating a mounting platform for the computer/tablet to be center mounted. Another benefit of this redesign is the console box’s new capability to accommodate one full-sized radio/device in the vertical, angled section. Due to a high transmission hump, the console box is still designed to work with radio control heads in the horizontal section to allow for passenger side egress in an emergency situation.

Enstrom Helicopter Corporation is pleased to introduce the newest member of its family, the TH180. Designed as a training helicopter, the TH180 is based on Enstrom’s solid reputation for safety and customer support with additional focus on low operating costs and ease of learning. Designed with the student in mind, its rugged frame with robust, energy-absorbing landing gear delivers wide margins of safety during training. Also, the high inertia main rotor provides superb autorotation characteristics and, contributes to the helicopter’s stability. The high inertia main rotor blades and articulated hub combine with the unblocked tail rotor to enhance controllability and maneuverability.

3M Public Safety announces the release of 3M Back Office Portal (PORTAL), an intuitive, web-enabled application that allows users to remotely access their entire pool of captured license plate data wherever Internet connectivity is available. PORTAL is designed to stretch the alerting and investigative functionality of an entire ALPR deployment without the need to purchase additional ALPR hardware. An officer no longer needs to be driving an ALPR-equipped cruiser in order to receive live hits. Instead, users of the new application gain direct access into their local BOSS to receive near real-time alerts from any number of deployed devices. Individual users choose the specific device(s) or hotlist(s) from which they will receive alerts. This allows for better allocation of resources. The interface displays reads and alerts, including license plate number, capturing device, time and date, and location. Location is displayed as a GPS coordinate that links directly to a map view of that read.

e2v aerospace and defense inc. (e2v a&d) is pleased to announce the opening of its new thermal imaging camera service and repair center in Milpitas, California. This new facility will provide North American customers with a fast response depot for the repair and replacement of e2v’s Argus thermal imaging cameras. e2v’s Argus thermal imaging cameras support the efforts of firefighters, law enforcement, search and rescue teams, and soldiers. They provide vital, immediate information under extreme conditions enabling time-critical decisions. Quick repair turnaround and return to service from e2v a&d will help maintain the readiness of these front-line responders.

AmpliVox Sound Systems continues its development of new and updated products with technological advances that are extremely user-friendly. The Visionary Multimedia Lectern creates more dynamic presentations through a simple plug-and-play connection that directly displays graphics from a laptop on an integrated front panel screen, eliminating the need for projector screens in conference rooms and other small venues. Customization options have been added for several lines of lecterns, including specially designed Pinnacle lecterns for military service branches.

DSM Dyneema introduces its new innovation platform: Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology. This new breakthrough innovation platform delivers products for use in soft and hard ballistic armor. Built on DSM Dyneema’s Radical Innovation platform, Dyneema Force Multiplier Technology delivers products with a combination of exceptional ballistic performance that are lightweight and low profile. Depending on the protection level required for the armor application, it can provide up to 30 percent weight reduction. It provides ballistic performance combined with light weight contruction and flexibility for enhanced comfort and agility for law enforcement personnel.

CaseCruzer Universal Shooting Range 4 Pack Handgun Case is shockproof and portable. Rugged portability, theft-proof locks, and a quick-draw design make this reusable CaseCruzer the right choice even if target practice is the only ambition. The singular slot interior is designed so that it will not dislodge or collide while in transit. The handgun carrying case is also fitted with double-throw latches for safety. It can house most semi-automatic handguns that are 7 inches to 9.25 inches in overall length, with barrels up to 4 inches. Many international brands are a good fit, including FNH, Auto-Ordnance, Sig Sauer, Colt, FNS, H&K, Glock, Remington, Springfield, Beretta, Ruger, Walther, Smith & Wesson, and Steyr.

Allegro Industries offers the Deluxe Full Mask Storage Bag and Deluxe Helmet Storage Bag, which have a durable polyester outer shell and fleece interior that protects the mask from scratches. Protecting and storing products properly adds to the longevity of gear. A breathable PVC mesh covering, drawstring closure, and carry strap allow for easy transport. Additional features include inside and outside zippered pockets for accessory storage, a hook to hang the bag when stored, a drain hole at the base of the bag and a clear plastic window pouch for a business card or personal ID.♦

From The Police Chief, vol. LXXXI, no. 5, May 2014. Copyright held by the International Association of Chiefs of Police, 515 North Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 USA.

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